How to Become a Natural Therapist: Australian Careers in Natural Therapy

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Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)

Naturopathy is a whole medical system combining theory (philosophy and principles) and practise that uses an array of natural therapies to support healing and maintain health.

Naturopaths aim to treat the underlying causes of illness and disease. The core principle of “healing through nature” guides the naturopath’s use of nutrition, dietary counselling, herbal medicine, manual therapies, flower essences, lifestyle education and homeopathy.

Students experience a holistic learning environment, broadening their studies across biological sciences in order to understand the human body and its functions. Importance is also placed on social sciences including psychology and counselling, nutrition and dietary planning, botany and herbal medicine studies, diagnostic techniques and clinical skills and extensive clinical practise in Endeavour’s Teaching Clinics.

Many naturopath’s work in private practise, managing their own business and personal clients. Naturopaths may also work in multi-disciplinary clinics, health food stores, pharmacies and day spas or retreats as practitioners.

Graduates are eligible for professional recognition with several Australian natural health associations and can expand into other industries, such as product development, education, professional writing, natural health research and product sales and marketing.

This course is delivered in a blended format where some class attendance is required, with the first year delivered 100% online.

Blended

NSW, QLD, SA, VIC, WA

Natural Therapist, Naturopath

Price may vary

4 years full-time; 8 years part-time

On this page

What is a Natural Therapist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Natural Therapist?

A career as a Natural Therapist offers a fulfilling opportunity to support individuals in achieving holistic health and well-being. Natural Therapists, also known as Complementary Health Therapists, focus on treating the whole person rather than just specific symptoms. They employ a variety of techniques, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle counselling, to address physical, mental, and emotional needs. This profession is ideal for those who are passionate about natural healing and wish to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

In their daily practice, Natural Therapists assess patients to determine their unique health concerns through careful questioning and observation. They develop tailored treatment plans that may incorporate various therapies, such as homoeopathy, nutrition, and even creative therapies like music or dance. A key responsibility is to evaluate and document the progress of their patients, ensuring that the treatment remains effective and aligned with the individual’s health goals. This ongoing assessment allows Natural Therapists to adapt their approaches as needed, fostering a dynamic and responsive healing environment.

Natural Therapists also play a vital role in educating their clients about healthy lifestyle choices, providing dietary advice, and recommending natural remedies to enhance the body’s self-healing capabilities. This aspect of the role not only empowers clients to take charge of their health but also fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. The rewarding nature of this career lies in witnessing the transformative journeys of clients as they embrace holistic health practices.

With a growing awareness of natural therapies and their benefits, the demand for skilled Natural Therapists continues to rise. This career path offers flexibility, with opportunities to work in various settings, including private practices, wellness centres, and even remote consultations. For those who are dedicated to promoting health and well-being through natural means, a career as a Natural Therapist can be both personally and professionally rewarding.

Career snapshots For Natural Therapists

Complementary Health Therapists play a vital role in the healthcare system, focusing on holistic treatment approaches that address physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional needs. This profession encompasses various practices, including acupuncture, homoeopathy, and herbal medicine, among others.

Average Age: 46 years
Gender Distribution: 65% female
Hours Worked: Average of 43 hours per week
Employment: Approximately 10,200 people are employed in this role
Projected Growth: An annual growth of 700 new positions is expected
Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate for this occupation is relatively low, reflecting a stable demand for services

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the demand for Complementary Health Therapists is anticipated to grow, driven by an increasing public interest in holistic and alternative health practices. This trend presents a promising opportunity for individuals considering a career in this field.

What will I do?

Natural Therapists play a vital role in promoting holistic health and well-being by addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of their clients. They employ a variety of complementary therapies and techniques to support the body’s natural healing processes. This career is ideal for those passionate about alternative medicine and dedicated to helping others achieve optimal health through natural means.

Assessing patients – Determine the nature of the disorder, illness, or need through questioning, examining, and observing.
Developing treatment plans – Create and implement tailored treatment plans using therapies such as acupuncture, homoeopathic and herbal medicine, and various expressive therapies.
Evaluating progress – Monitor and document patients’ progress throughout their treatment plans to ensure effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
Providing lifestyle advice – Offer dietary and lifestyle recommendations to support overall health and well-being.
Prescribing natural medicines – Recommend natural remedies, including herbal, mineral, and animal extracts, to enhance the body’s self-healing capabilities.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Natural Therapist requires a diverse set of skills that blend scientific knowledge with a compassionate approach to health and wellness. Practitioners must possess strong assessment abilities to evaluate patients’ physical, mental, and emotional needs. This involves not only questioning and observing but also developing tailored treatment plans that may include therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary advice. Effective communication skills are essential, as therapists must clearly convey treatment options and lifestyle changes to their clients, fostering a supportive and trusting environment.

In addition to interpersonal skills, a solid foundation in anatomy, physiology, and nutrition is crucial for Natural Therapists. They should be adept at documenting patient progress and adapting treatment plans as necessary. Continuous learning is also vital in this field, as new research and techniques emerge. Overall, a successful Natural Therapist combines empathy, scientific understanding, and practical skills to promote holistic health and well-being in their clients.

Skills/attributes

Strong communication skills
Empathy and compassion
Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Knowledge of holistic health practices
Ability to assess and evaluate patient needs
Understanding of nutrition and dietary guidelines
Familiarity with various natural therapies (e.g., acupuncture, herbal medicine)
Organisational skills for managing treatment plans
Commitment to ongoing professional development
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with clients
Attention to detail in documenting patient progress
Ability to provide lifestyle and wellness advice
Understanding of ethical and legal considerations in natural therapy

Resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

ACT

TAS

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Career Outcomes

How to Become a Natural Therapist: Australian Careers in Natural Therapy

1 Course

Displaying 1 of 1 courses

Filters

Clear all

Location

Industry

Study Mode

Payment Option

Qualification

Course Provider

Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)

Naturopathy is a whole medical system combining theory (philosophy and principles) and practise that uses an array of natural therapies to support healing and maintain health.

This course is delivered in a blended format where some class attendance is required, with the first year delivered 100% online.

Blended

NSW, QLD, SA, VIC, WA

Natural Therapist, Naturopath

Price may vary

4 years full-time; 8 years part-time

On this page

What is a Natural Therapist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Natural Therapist?

Career snapshots For Natural Therapists

Average Age: 46 years
Gender Distribution: 65% female
Hours Worked: Average of 43 hours per week
Employment: Approximately 10,200 people are employed in this role
Projected Growth: An annual growth of 700 new positions is expected
Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate for this occupation is relatively low, reflecting a stable demand for services

What will I do?

Assessing patients – Determine the nature of the disorder, illness, or need through questioning, examining, and observing.
Developing treatment plans – Create and implement tailored treatment plans using therapies such as acupuncture, homoeopathic and herbal medicine, and various expressive therapies.
Evaluating progress – Monitor and document patients’ progress throughout their treatment plans to ensure effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
Providing lifestyle advice – Offer dietary and lifestyle recommendations to support overall health and well-being.
Prescribing natural medicines – Recommend natural remedies, including herbal, mineral, and animal extracts, to enhance the body’s self-healing capabilities.

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Strong communication skills
Empathy and compassion
Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Knowledge of holistic health practices
Ability to assess and evaluate patient needs
Understanding of nutrition and dietary guidelines
Familiarity with various natural therapies (e.g., acupuncture, herbal medicine)
Organisational skills for managing treatment plans
Commitment to ongoing professional development
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with clients
Attention to detail in documenting patient progress
Ability to provide lifestyle and wellness advice
Understanding of ethical and legal considerations in natural therapy

Resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

ACT

TAS